Antique Icon Saint George and the Dragon 35x29 cm Russia 19th Century

Ancient Russian icon depicting Saint George on horseback slaying the dragon. The antiquity and spread of Saint George's worship are confirmed by historical and archaeological documents; according to tradition, the saint suffered martyrdom under the Persian emperor Dacian, after professing his Christian faith in front of seventy-two sovereigns and was beheaded after severe tortures. The famous legend of the maiden saved from the dragon, rich in mythological symbolism, subsequently spread and became one of the most representative iconographic themes: Saint George, on horseback, pierces the dragon, freeing the princess, while her parents observe the scene from the city walls, under the protective gaze of the blessing Christ. Saint George, revered as a heavenly protector in the fight against evil and the patron of several cities, especially Moscow, was invoked not only to defend against enemies but also to protect livestock, particularly horses. His feast, celebrated on April 23, coincided with the spring rites symbolizing the triumph of life over the death of winter. Delivered in an elegant blue velvet box, the religious icon is accompanied by an evaluation by a specialized expert. Origin: Moscow. Technique: egg tempera. Materials: wood, levkas. Actual measurements: 35x29.5 cm. Era: 19th century.